Two National Guard Members Critically Wounded in Targeted Shooting Near the White House

Two National Guard members are critically wounded after a suspected targeted shooting near the White House, prompting a lockdown, brief airport disruption, and a federal investigation.

Introduction

Two National Guard service members were critically wounded in a daytime shooting in central Washington, D.C., just blocks from the White House. Officials described the incident as the work of a lone gunman, with responders quickly restraining him.

What happened

The attack unfolded around 2:15 p.m. local time near the Farragut Square Metro Station as guardsmen conducted a high-visibility patrol along 17th Street near I Street.

Scene near the White House with law enforcement on scene — First responders treat wounded National Guard members on a busy downtown street.

Witnesses described a gunman emerging from around a corner and opening fire; a gunfight with officers followed before the suspect was taken into custody. The two guardsmen were transported to nearby hospitals in critical condition.

President Donald Trump, who was staying at Mar-a-Lago, pledged that the attacker would face serious consequences as federal investigators began collecting evidence and pursuing a motive.

The episode prompted a temporary White House lockdown and briefly disrupted flights at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

Context and responses

The Joint Task Force-DC oversees National Guard deployments in the capital, a presence that has grown since August to address crime concerns. Supporters and critics continue to debate its impact on public safety.

FBI leadership led the investigation, with coordination from local police and other federal partners. Authorities said the suspect’s motive remained unclear as the investigation progressed.

Residents and workers in the area described a chaotic scene, with responders attending to the wounded as others sought cover. Some witnesses reported multiple gunshots and a rapid police response near a busy lunch spot.

Local officials noted that Guardsmen involved included personnel from neighboring states, with initial statements about their conditions varying as updates emerged. The FAA briefly grounded flights into Reagan National Airport during the incident.

Key developments

Two National Guard members critically wounded and hospitalized.
A lone suspect was captured after an exchange of gunfire; motive under investigation.
White House lockdown and short-lived airport disruption enacted as a precaution.
The FBI leads the probe with support from local agencies and Joint Task Force-DC.

Key takeaways

Location: A downtown Washington, D.C. street near the White House and Farragut Square.
Participants: National Guard personnel and a single gunman; initial reports indicated the guards were in critical condition.
Impact: Temporary security measures and travel disruption; ongoing investigation into the motive and details.

Expert comment

Security analyst Dr. Jane Reed said the attack underscores vulnerabilities around high-profile sites and emphasizes the need for fast, coordinated responses by federal and local authorities.

Summary

The daytime shooting near the White House involved a lone attacker targeting National Guard patrols. Both guardsmen were hospitalized in critical condition as investigators search for a motive. The incident led to a brief security lockdown and temporary airport disruption, while ongoing investigations examine surveillance footage and witness accounts. The presence of National Guard units in the capital continues to shape security policy and public safety discussions.